Double Fantasy

by mimithorisson

Sometime last summer I (hopefully – delusionally) announced that from autumn onwards we would launch a redesigned blog with more frequent posts and contributions from my friends. What happened instead was that posts became less frequent, there was no redesign. It’s not a cancellation though, it is simply a postponement. When I started this blog some years ago I had no idea what I wanted to do with it, it happened naturally and this winter, equally naturally, posts have been few and far between. It’s natural because we’ve been so busy, with the workshops but mainly with my new baby, my second cookbook. It took all my best efforts to finish it in time, and when I say in time I mean so late that it would have been too late if my wonderful editor, Rica, hadn’t moved the finish line for me so that I could make it.

I believe that, with very few exceptions, things need to change and grow to blossom. This blog has not changed since the beginning but the question facing me this January is how do we keep what’s good, build on it, make posts more frequent, keep the purity and simplicity, yet make it more accessible and easy to find older recipes. I want to keep this blog exactly how it is. I also want to change it and make it better. I’ve decided to do both. I’m terrible with deadlines but let’s try aim for late February and if not I hope you will be as understanding as my editor and allow me to move the finish line.

In a few days I’ll publish a traditional post with a delicious winter menu but I thought it would be fun to look back at 2015, remember a few things we did, share them with you and, in some cases, think about how they will affect 2016. Oddur, my husband, is my partner in all I do, the blog would be very different without him – I like to say we are a dragon with two heads. So I asked him to contribute to this post and we decided to each talk about five things. 5 songs each on a 10 album LP. When I was growing up in Hong Kong my mother loved John Lennon, especially Double Fantasy which was on practically every day. Sometimes she’d have a tiny glass of sherry, flick through French magazines (I am named after one of those – Marie-France) and reminisce about her days as a young girl in France and a young woman in London. She loves living in Hong Kong, she loves the culture, the climate, the massages, the food. But Europe always made her fell a little nostalgic and sometimes Double Fantasy (oddly enough) was the soundtrack to that nostalgia.

Just like on Double Fantasy we’ll take turns, Oddur will go first, then I etc. I picked being John Lennon first so Oddur is Yoko …

The Year of the dog

Hi it’s Yoko here. Happy new year! Sometime soon we’ll leave the year of the goat behind and enter the year of the monkey. But not in this house, in this house every year is the year of the dog. And one dog in particular, my dog Humfri. He’s not the smartest dog and he’s a little grumpy in the morning. He sleeps on a little ugly bed in the corner of our bedroom and growls when the kids come near him. He likes to sleep in. There was that incident when he tried to assassinate a Pomeranian in Orvieto. And that incident when he peed on the leg of the diner next to us. He causes all sorts of problems, like most dogs do, but he does it with panache.
He fills my eye every day with his beauty and my heart with his distinctively odd character.

Here’s to another year together my friend.

The Restaurant

I’m back (Mimi – sorry John)
The first time I visited 1 rue de Loudenne I had a book in my head. I called my editor, Rica Allannic, and spilled my beans. “That sounds wonderful but shouldn’t we finish book number 1 first?” was her response. I have a tendency to get ahead of myself. The idea of opening a restaurant in my home, my dream restaurant, and writing a book about it sounded a little crazy but mainly great and I can’t believe that we actually did it. The restaurant was magic, I’m so excited about the new book and can’t wait to share it with all of you.

It will be called “French Country Cooking” and is out this year in October published by Clarkson Potter like my previous book. I was very happy with the last book and though you shouldn’t have favorites when it comes to your children I think I like this one even more, so many hours went into it, so much love and laughter.

It’s the best feeling in the world, to finish something so meaningful and wait for it to come to life.

The Miles

Talking about distinctively odd characters, remembering last year wouldn’t be possible without mentioning Miles. He was the cook (sorry Miles, chef) who assisted Mimi in the kitchen. His effort were worthy of a reality show (one that I would actually watch) and took the phrase “full or surprises” to a new level. I had many good moments with him in the “boucherie“, where we shared wine and stories. He knew how to win my heart. He said “we are just like Captain Aubrey and Dr. Maturin” me being the Master and Commander. Miles was rather well read and any man who refers to me as Master and Commander is off to a rather fantastic start. You can read more about Miles in my wife’s upcoming book but I thought I’d share a pairing that Miles introduced to me and I named after him.

I don’t love sweet potatoes but I like the idea of them. I love the smell and aroma of Cognac but seldom drink it. Miles told me he eats a baked sweet potato every day to improve his eyesight and always with Cognac. Considering the source that may be an exaggeration but I find this a most interesting pairing. Very sophisticated and primal at once. A mélange straight out of a Hemingway short story.

I encourage you to try this at home, just prick the potato with a fork and place it in a hot oven for 30 minutes, then slash open and fill with butter. The Cognac should be smooth.

Mouhalabieh – Orange Blossom and pistachio flan

Even if this is not a conventional post I thought I must share at least one recipe (the Miles isn’t really a recipe is it?) When I lived in Paris we sometimes ordered Lebanese takeaway and when we did I always included Mouhalabieh in the order. Two for me was the standard. It’s a wonderful flan like pudding drenched with orange flower syrup and topped with pistachios. I hadn’t thought about this little friendly dish for a very long time until I had a sudden craving late last fall and I’ve made it countless times since. While this is a great dessert I love to make it any time of the day and have it when I feel like it.

In a medium-sized saucepan, heat the milk and sugar on a medium heat and add the sifted cornstarch. Whisk until the mixture thickens and coats the back on a spoon, about 5 minutes. At this point take the pan off the heat and whisk in the orange blossom water.
Pour the mixture into ramekins and leave to cool completely. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Prepare the syrup:
In a small saucepan, heat the water, honey, sugar on a medium heat. When the mixture starts to thicken slightly about 3 minutes, add the orange blossom water.
Take off the heat and leave to cool completely.
Preheat the oven to 180°C/350°F. Spread the pistachios on a baking tray and roast for 3 to 5 minutes. Remove from the oven and leave to cool. Chop the pistachios coarsely and reserve.
To serve.
Drizzle the syrup on the flans and scatter the pistachios on top. Serve immediately.

The Vehicle

2015 is the year I finally got a Land Rover. Old, huge, beautiful and monstrous. I’ve never been a particular car buff and though I appreciate beautiful cars there was always something else more interesting or important to get. This car landed in my lap and what a happy coincidence that was. Driving through the muddy roads of Médoc, unstoppable, is better than I thought. Driving all the way to Rome, with no music or air condition in sweltering heat is not as bad as I thought. Not in a Land Rover.

The Workshop Playlist

Last year we hosted so many wonderful workshops, met incredible people from all over the world. Such a mixed group of all sorts of people who love food and wine … and music.
We have a good selection of music we tend to listen to a lot but some of the guests also pitched in. It takes a lot to make it into the Manger workshop playlist, like somebody said “this is good stuff”

It was a very good year. For the wine being made in the vineyards (look out for 2015) and for me personally, because of the wine I drank. It’ almost impossible to pick favorites but let me try.

Early in the year we had the pleasure of dining with Mr. Jean-Michel Cazes, the owner of Château Lynch Bages. He brought the wine. 1991 Domaine de Chevalier (white), 1985 Mouton Rothschild, 1962 Château Montrose, 1959 Château Lynch-Bages and the 1952 Lynch-Bages, made by his grandfather. The ’59 was my favorite, maybe, of the whole year.

Other extremely memorable sips were the ´89 and ´99 of Margaux, a privilege made possible by the WSJ who sent me to Château Margaux for a story, yet I ended up in a lavish lunch with Madame Mentzelopoulos, the owner, and Paul Pontallier the winemaker.

An epic wine day was had in autumn at Château Ducru-Beaucaillou where we had the pleasure of tasting many of the best vintages of the last 20 years. That’s the night Mimi said to the person next to her that she actually preferred Italian wine. It was a joke of course, a bold funny one. There weren’t too many laughs though.

All this is probably fairly meaningless, these wines are hard to get your hands on and if you can you may have to sell your house.

So here is the list of the best wines I had at home in 2015, for what it’s worth, many are not given but they’re all great and in most cases they should be obtainable.

1. Château Lynch-Bages 1996
I fell in love with this vintage years ago and the romance just won’t end. A very Médoc, Médoc. The 2000 is supposed to be better and maybe it will catch up but this is my coup de coeur.

2. Château Ducru-Beaucaillou 2003
A hot year and a beautiful wine, more or less ready to drink now.

3. Château Calon Ségur 2005
A little young but really opening up this year, smooth and lovely, pleases everyone. You should try to get at least two bottles, drink one now, keep the other one.

4. Château Léoville las Cases 2004
We had this bottle with Mimi’s editor, Rica, and her husband Cyrille, a French master chef when they visited us in the summer. We served it with an andouille sausage from Brittany and though the pairing might not have worked it did. Everything works with this wine.

5. Château Rauzan-Ségla 1989
This bottle was the star of one of the workshops – remember Jerry?

6. Château Tour Haut Caussan 2003 (Cuvee Mathis)
Our dear friend Fabien, aka the best man in Médoc, makes this wine and in 2003 he put all his efforts into it as it saw the birth of his only son Mathis. He says it’s the best he’s made and I agree.

7. I Sodi di San Niccolo 2010.
For the sake of variety we have to include at least one Italian wine. My wife picked the bottle on a trip to Milano, it has a little bird on it. Judging a wine by its label never felt so right. This was also the year I really got into the Sagrantino grape from Umbria and the year of a decent amount of Barolo’s from … and Brunello’s from Biondi Santi. In Rome I had the 2007 Rosso di Montalcino from Biondi Santi, it tasted great … but then I was in Rome.

Whites we couldn’t get enough of were the Blanc de Lynch-Bages, the Cygne Blanc from Château Fonréaud, Elise from Château le Pey (our friends) and Caillou Blanc from Château Talbot. Château Smith Haut Lafitte was much-loved but we had it less simply because of the price.

The travel discovery and the buttoned up shirt

Last year I went an incredible 6 times to Italy. First with Mimi in May when she was invited to cook at a food festival but after that mainly to Umbria. I knew Umbria a little from before, we have decent knowledge of Toscana and Marche, the neighboring regions but apart from a few fleeting visits to Perugia, Umbria remained a mystery. I have CN Traveler to thank, they sent me on many missions there throughout the year and most of them ended up as road trips. The first assignment was to shoot Brunello Cucinelli and “his” Umbria. My boys came with me, Thorir & Hudson and of course Humfri and his son Dick (this was before they fell out). Hudson took the trip very seriously and always wore a blue blazer and a white shirt buttoned up to the top. I always told him to unbutton claiming he looked too much like a Belgian fashion designer. That’s how it went. He buttoned up, I made him button down etc. Then we met Brunello who passed his judgement. “Buttoning up in this case is more chic”. Hudson won, I lost.

The food in Umbria is incredible, the landscape so hilly and unusual and part of it reminds me of Iceland but with much better weather and olive trees. My favorite subject of last year was one of Brunello’s tailors, a humble, quiet, elegant man who wore his clothes with enormous dignity.

Many times this year we were happy in Umbria.

The cherry on the cake – 8 is my lucky number

So it’s up to me to finish this account. With a baby boy. He’ll arrive in late June and though he has more to do with this year his roots were planted in the fall of 2015. I have said time and again on this blog that we were done. I have confidently stated that the baby shop was closed for good. It seems it wasn’t and I couldn’t be happier. Four girls in a row would have been wonderful and even a little funny but I have to admit that a baby boy right now feels right.
It will be the last beautiful chapter in a book that is turning out much longer than I ever expected. It’s also the second time in two years that I’m expecting a child in early summer and a book in late fall. It’s double fantasy. Twice.

I wish you all a happy and exciting new year and thank you once again for coming to my obscure little corner of the world, whether it’s in person or simply by visiting this blog.

Such a pleasure to read your blog over these past few years Mimi 🙂 CONGRATULATIONS for the baby boy and all my warmest wishes for 2016 and your family! It’s a joy to see them here and on Instagram.
Keep warm, I’m headed home to Singapore for Chinese New Year and I can’t wait to soak in the humidity 😉
Bisous xx Jasmine

I have no idea how you do all you do and still have time to allow us into your lives with this wonderful blog. Thank you so much for all the gorgeous pictures and wonderful recipes. Knowing you will be continuing this great blog and another cookbook is on the way is such happy news! Congratulations on living a beautiful life with a beautiful family.

I would like to say thank you for “inspiring” me. I suppose that word doesn’t mean much but you’ve given me the strength to lead my life exactly the way I picture it, no matter what other people may think. Loads of dogs & loads of babies (along with – hopefully – a rich work life). Because this is what I truly want.
I wish you the best of luck with your last (never say never …) pregnancy.
Je ne désespère pas de vous rencontrer un jour 🙂

Mimi,
I have to admit that although I love looking at the food and perusing the recipes, I’m not a foodie. I am however, enthralled with your husband’s photography. It’s delicious. Thank you both for this lovely blog.
Virginia

Oh what a divine blog post.
Congratulations on the new baby to be. You both have amazing energy and joy to take pleasures in all the simple perfect things in life.
Your blog refocuses me every time. Thank you

What wonderful news, congratulations to you! Thank you for sharing the playlist; if I follow the recipes and play the music (and squint), I can pretend I’m at No. 1, rue de Loudenne. 🙂 Can’t WAIT for the new book!!!

Félicitations!
You must be so excited! What wonderful news. Is this number 5?
A book, a baby, workshops. You are busy. Do take it easy though and look after yourself and your family first and foremost.
Bisous

Many congratulations on your baby boy in June and book this Fall! I am glad to know while you have plans for the Manger, you will retain its authentic style. Your warmth and heart is so evident here. A joy to read. Best wishes!

Oh how exciting. I am due with my third in July. I very very much hope to see some pregnancy and baby related posts on the blog, even though you all must be so busy. Thank you so much for your lovely writing and photos, and especially food mr and mrs thorrison :). Cheers from canada

I have to say, my favourite thing to do in the evening after my boys are in bed, is to go back and re-read your lovely posts before getting back to my easel to paint. Can’t wait to order the next book.

I am under the weather and watching our cold grey skies awaiting a large snowstorm and was cheered up but ths lovely post full of life and wine! I cannot wait for the new book. And congratulations on your baby news. How lovely. Now inspired maybe I’ll go make your garlic soup and feel better. That soup is magical!

It’s funny, I was just thinking about your having said there would be guest posts and more, shorter posts, and thinking about the promises we make and the pressures we end up under when we start to have a readership. I don’t know why I’m saying we, as though this has happened to me (actually..a photo of mine just got picked on a weekly round-up someone does on Instagram as one of her favourite four and I was all like “aaargh” now I’m not going to be able to keep posting my usual crappy photos). Anyway, I was reading a post by someone who was stepping away from her blog though she was still in love with it…and it made me think about your blog. And what I thought was…good! I’m super glad that you haven’t had the time to change the format, though of course I’ll embrace it when you do.

By the way Oddur, I’m still harking on about the Lynch-Moussas which was definitely my favourite of the year. And when I finally finish Part 2 of my write up (ahem) I’m going to crack open the Clos du Marquis in memory of almost ruining the one we had.

Looking forward to checking out the music, thank you.

Fingers crossed that I get to pay you a visit this year and, regardless, wishing you every continued joy and happiness.

Hello my dear Susie, it’s wonderful to be back, I’ve got to admit, the first 3 months being preggers are the toughest. And the book… it was hard to get back on track with the blog! But now we’re back, so so so happy! Wishing you all the best and I sure hope to see you soon! Love, Mimix

Can’t wait to see the new look blog. Loved Odur’s wine selection. Pity they are all way out of my price range. One can always dream.
I will have to come to Medoc soon. My cooking classes are doing great here in Dordogne. We will have to compare notes.
Bisous,
Nadiahttp://Www.maisontravers.wordpress.com

Congratulations! A new life on earth….a true joy. Never….ever worry about posting to us…you have more important things to do. We know you are busy and will read whatever we can get from you. Enjoy your lovely family and know you bring joy to our home. We will favor any post we can get from you. If you can find the time…..put your feet up and enjoy! There is nothing as precious as family.
All the best to you and yours.

Reading your stories is always a pleasure, but this post is doubly beautiful for how you both write it, for your second book, and for baby number 8. I’m overjoyed for you and your family; and I hope to visit your restaurant and meet you in person one day not too far in the future. In the meantime, I’ll stick around here and wait for your forthcoming book!

Happy New Year for you and your beautiful family. Congratulation for the baby boy, such a beautiful surprise.
I am so grateful for having a chance to be part of your Medoc life for a couple of days. It was amazing. I remember every single moment, taste of wines, music we listened at night and all the laughs. Most of all, it’s warm my heart the picture of Audrey May discovering the world around our chairs. So happy to hear that another baby will be there in June.
Waiting for the new books and more news from you.
Double fantasy. Kisses, Tatyana

Hi Beautiful Mimi!
Well firts of all my Big congratulations with baby boy.. love your family and kids!

I always enjoy to read your blog. and also dream one day to have a huge family as you do! You always inspiring me.. and I want to wish you beautiful, healthy, wealthy, happy year full of harmony and flowers.
Hugs from Texas.
Zarina oxox

Ohmygoodness!!! What a lucky baby boy is coming into this world! Congratulations to you & Oddur! When I saw your exquisite photo and read “my new baby” I thought, oh she must mean Audrey, how busy Audrey’s kept her. I got so caught up in the wonderful wine list, Matt & I went into swoon mode. And then I read your final words in this post and let out a pretty loud cheer – what an incredible family ! Your posts are always a thrill, I don’t mind waiting really – there’s nothing like them. It’s hard to believe you can do so much and still write memorable posts and get manuscripts for your books out the door. I’m so glad you do. Lots of love & hugs to you & Oddur- Linny

Thank you Linny! 2015 was quite something, I still don’t know how we did it, but whatever it was, it was always late! 🙂 We are thrilled, and so happy to share more this new year! Sending you big love, Mimi x

As I am blogger I can understand your concern about making changes to the blog, Mimi, and want it evolves. However, as fan of your blog I can tell you that I like as it is, I enjoy every post and changes in the blog can wait because what matters is what you and your family you transmit.
I like the idea of this new section led by Oddur ^-^

Congratulations on your expanding family and beautiful post! I’m looking forward to trying out the orange blossom and pistachio flan. I’m writing this comment with my third baby, of almost three months, in my arms. So much joy and difficult to say the baby shop is closed!

Hi Mimi, such wonderful news! I can imagine all the wanna-be-born-babies seeing all the fun you’re having and wanting to be part of the action! And you did have that really great name from last time too. Best of luck to you. I’m looking forward to your more frequent blog posts. All in due course. For now congrats all around and here’s to life surprising you in the best way possible x

Hmm … maybe an explanation for your fainting at the bakery in October? Your new little one has no idea yet how lucky he is. You have a wonderful family and a house fully of love. May 2016 be all that you desire!

Mimi… when I saw the picture and read “Double Fantasy” I thought you were double pregnant (like me, remember?).
I’m so, so happy for you! And I sure understand why you haven’t closed the shop yet… children are just the best, aren’t they.
I loved reading your throwback from 2015 and that you shared such good memories- I couldn’t take my eyes from that sweet potato!! – and also thank you for the playlist… I’ve been trying to figure it out since last November… 😀
So… happy new year of 2016 for all of you in 1 rue de Loudenne and a great spring for. June is the best month for bringing people in this world and geminis are great people.
Congratulations for you, Odur and the brothers and sisters.
Big kiss!
Su (the portuguese) 😉

Thank you dearest Su! Oh dear, if I had twins like you, I’ll nearly make as a family of 12 kids (my kids have a fantasy, and it’s a family like in the movie ‘Cheaper by the Dozen’, the mom is a writer and they think it’s cool!:) ) Enjoy the playlist, hopefully it’ll bring back some good memories of our workshop together! Big hugs and all the best for this new year! Mimi x

And to think just last night I was reloading your home page and muttering to myself that there must be a new post soon. There must! And here is it today, with such wonderful news, all the way around. Thank you for sharing all this, and for providing such inspiration on so many fronts.

WOW Mimi you guys are baby machines. Congratulations – delighted for you all. Hats off to you. I have three boys 4 and under and well I don’t get a minute do I cannot imagine how you have time to do all you do, I admire you so much. Part of me would love another baby but another part is saying no. I’m 40 this year so I think not. My baby is 7 months now and I so enjoy this time. I am hoping to come for a month to the medoc with my three boys this summer so will knock on your door. I had dreams of doing the classes or working for you but I cannot leave my babies. But well I may ‘holiday’ there and if your pop up is open…although baby is due in summer, so maybe not! You are an amazing woman – u truly hope we meet some day. Congrats again to you and your family xxx warm regards

Mimi,
Even through life’s beautiful chaos you remain optimistic and your effortlessness shines through! —I for one say TAKE YOUR TIME getting back to us readers – your health is far more important –after all, I can re-read just about every post and review every beautiful picture time and time again, and never get bored! And when I’m away from my computer and have a few moments to myself, I sit down with your book (which my sister bought me for Christmas after hearing me go on and on and on about your wonderful blog) and gently flip through the pages and soak it all in again.
My food and wine loving family gathers together often and I am always bringing up your classes and how we should all take a trip to Medoc – Oh! How much fun we would all have! Until then, I’ll just poke around Manger and soak it all up! Take care, and good luck with your newest addition!
Sincerely,
Judy

Bonjour Judy, How lovely to hear from you! Thank you for all your sweet words. It’s great to be back, we are preparing lots f delicious recipes this week-end and can’t wait to share. And yes, what fun it would be to meet you here in Médoc! Wishing you all the best for 2016! Mimi x

Mimi and Oddur, there’s little more one can say but “wow”, another child! Thanks for the lists, there’s lots to explore. Will your second book be on a preorder system as was the first? I’m on! I miss the more regular posts, but completely understand. Vicarious visits to France I call them.

Your book is a delight, I’m expecting the new one with a touch of excitement. Gongratulations for the baby boy Mimi, hope this little one will reach the hospital on time, not like Audrey May !
Have a wonderful like you all

I’m a new follower of your blog and I do love the photos and your heartwarming stories. It makes me want to move to Medoc! You’ve provided inspiration and made me think about stopping to smell the roses! Congratulations to the new baby and looking forward to your new book.

I was so happy to see your latest post this evening and congratulations on your wonderful news. Your blog is one that I so look forward to reading. You share your life and recipes so graciously with us all. A very happy and healthy 2016 to you and your family. x

So delighted for your new arrival! Big families full of love are the best! You are doing the most important job in the world by putting them first. Love your posts, and will look forward to your new cookbook to inspire me as I cook for my 6 children! 🙂 love, Emily

I’m a brand new follower, having found you at Christmas when I gave your cookbook to my dearest friend as a gift, then found one under my own tree on Christmas morning! Such lovely stories, recipes & photographs. Much luck and happiness in 2016 with your new addition(s) at home and in the bookstore.

Congratulations all. A boy seems perfect after 4 girls. What a joy! I love your blog and pictures and stories. Thank you for sharing your pics, family, and adventures with me. How lucky am I to find you. Love, Patti

The now 4 month with child Mimi is even more beautiful than the 2 month with child Mimi who won our hearts at the November workshop.Dee and I often think about our days there. Oddur: I will be back to try #1-4; I still remember #5. But there were no wine bargains in the City of Bordeaux. Instead, I spent an hour on cyber-Monday in our hotel room ordering wine online from my NY dealer (15% off and free delivery!), and secured 2 bottles of ’89 Ducru-B at a fair price. We wish the St. Yzans’ Thorisson family a joyous 2016.

Dearest Jerry! Happy new year to you & Dee. Our November workshop was so much fun, you guys were my A-team, especially during the ‘Le Monde’ take-over 🙂 Oddur often talks about you, you guys were good wine buddies! Glad to hear you found the right wine at the right price. Big hugs to all, Mimi x

Congratulations on your impending arrival! What wonderful news! You may not recall, but my husband and I met you at a fete in St Christoly a couple of summers ago where you were cooking – we were up from Bordeaux. We’ve got our little bundle due this year too, two months to go! An exciting year! Wishing you all the best with your pregnancy, and of course the next book! Bises, Rebecca x

Huge congratulations, big families are the best, I said no more after 1 and ended up with 5 and wouldn’t change a thing!!! Have so enjoyed the blog and your cookbook, my children love making the chocolate meringues, they have become quite expert at them! Looking forward to book number 2. Susan x

Bonjour Mimi! I’ve been following your blog for awhile now, but have never posted. I have to post now though – Congratulations!! And thank you for creating this wonderful blog with beautiful pictures and mouth watering recipes. I just received your cookbook for Christmas and read it from cover to cover in a matter of days. Can’t wait for your new one. Thank you again for sharing your beautiful life with us. It’s truly a pleasure to read (and re-read :)) each post.

In Winter we dream of returning to the Medoc in June again next Summer. Elanie loves the le Cygne, but it does not leave France. We visited with Jean Michel briefly last Summer, he is an amazing man. My favorite wine this year was Pichon Lalande 1985. Please keep th blog going so I can dream !!
Carl and Elaine

So very happy that you will be blessed with baby and book again! Please, don’t worry about changing or staying the same…just a few lovely pictures and a recipe or two to whisper inspiration to me is always a lovely welcome, however, whenever! Enjoy! xx

Oh my, this post made me so happy on so many levels, thank you a thousand times for sharing everything you do. Like they say ..we plan and the Gods laugh, or some rendition therof. What blessings you have in store for 2016, and because of your generousity, so do we. Take your time with everything, we are patient and you always make it worth it. I am not quite sure how you could top your last delivery adventure, lets try not to. Much love and happy thoughts to you and yours

Dearest Michelle, It’s always fun to think of the highlights, so much has happened last year! So glad you enjoyed the post, now we’ll just have to greet 2016 with big arms! Lovely to be back, lots of recipes coming your way! Mimi x

Congratulations on your wonderful news! I wish you continued happiness and fulfillment with your growing family. : ) And I think, perhaps, that all posts should be unconventional after reading this. Thanks for sharing a bit of your world with us.

I AM SERIOUS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
YOU LADIES NEED TO KNOW HOW TO TURN THAT MACHINE ON!Then again Mimi has HUDSON who will be able to TAKE OVER ………I still think it will be an EXPERIENCE!!!
I am working on THE ITALIAN…………he does not like it when I GO AWAY!Little chance of him coming with me………….BUT IF YOU ALL COME TO SAN FRANCISCO for a BOOK TOUR I WILL FEED YOU or rather the ITALIAN WILL WHIP UP SOME PASTA to start, etc etc………and yes there is ALWAYS wine not the quality you are use too perhaps but it is home made!
XOXO

Thank you again from Utah, USA! every time I read a post I feel such a connection with your beautiful country and the incredible food to say nothing of the photography which is always candy for the eyes. Thank you for sharing your talent and your country with us misplaced in a foreign country….Utah! Don’t get me wrong we love it here but I’m certain we would love it there as well.
Well done my friends abroad,
Tonya LeMone

Dear Mimi,
My utmost admiration for you and your creations –in the kitchen, in your writings, the family you’ve made and keep on growing. I’ve admired, but never yet commented on, your blog. Today, upon seeing your beautiful picture and a new life growing, I had to. Blessings to you and your family.

Hi Mimi! I second Natacha wholeheartedly. I´ve been a fan of you for quite a few months and I took the pleasure to introduce you to my teenage daughter Francine and told her what a beautiful, young, classy lady you are being a wife, a mother and running a business with your husband. She told me indeed you´re someone to look up to (besides me of course). I hope she turns out like you!
My best and warmest wishes for a wonderful and happy 2016. Greetings from Honduras. x

Hi Mimi,
Congratulations! I am so happy for your family. I adore big family too! It must be a magical year 2015 for you. Have a wonderful 2016 as well. Can’t wait for your cookbook and the next blog post!

A Happy New Year to you Mimi!
So glad to see your post come in.
I had to keep clicking back to the side view photo of you before I could finish reading..wow! How beautiful! Congratulations! so,so inspiring to see that wonderful and adorable bump.
You look better than ever!
All that you give and are doing is so wonderfully inspirational. Plate upon plate you provide a time and space that captures which seems untouchable, and yet the common thread that grounds the surreal into the real is the shared sublime vocation of motherhood and silky smooth flan.
Please tell Yoko that I like the beautiful Monster, the humble dignified tailor, I am happy Hudson won. and the lens on Umbria, is also a great source of memory happiness for me. Thank you for the gorgeous photos!
I am so happy for you Mimi.
Looking forward to the new cookbook
Joy-

Congratulations! I don’t know you do it, but you obviously do it all well! Can’t wait for the next cookbook, plus I hope to visit soon. I’ve visited Stéphane in Libourne three times in the last couple of years, plus we went to chateau lynch bages for a tasting. The good thing about blogging is that you are your own boss! So no real pressure, except for self-inflicted pressure!!! Great post!

Oh Mimi, Marie France!!! I used to read that one – along with Marie Claire and Madame Figaro and Elle – when I was twelve, thirteen,, up into my twenties… what great memories! And congratulations on your baby boy!!http://bloglairdutemps.blogspot.pt

Thank you Anita! Happy new year to you. the restaurant was a blast, such a delicate experience, creating a dreamy restaurant for the very first time. The new book will be filled with stories from this experience, along with the recipes of course! Wishing you all the very best! Mimi x

Félicitations! I would love to know how you spend your day! How on earth do you get everything done? Where does your energy come from? Can you bottle it? 🙂
Seriously what i a typical day like for you? That would be an interesting post to read too. For most of us, getting to the grocery store, putting away the groceries and making one meal a day is exhausting but you write cookbooks, run a restaurant, create new dishes, cook each day and all with 7 children. Wonder Woman doesn’t hold a candle to you!

I really really agree! I’m on top of my game today with stuffed mushroom app in the oven and the toddlers napping. But I’m always curious how other mom’s get things done. Especially because I am in my pajamas still at 3pm. Really have got to break that habit!!!!

This was the most wonderful post, with a superb ending! Biggest Congratulations on your success, new book & bébé. Thanks for sharing your joys with us, I look forward to reading each post. I am always inspired by you & love your writing style. Wishing you all the best for 2016 🙂

Mimi, I loved this post from you and Oddur. You make a delightful team! What a fantastic year you all have had, a new baby just adds to the excitement! It was fun to read the highlights of 2015. I always look forward to reading about your life in the Medoc, it was such fun to visit there. Wishing you good health and happiness in 2016.

Hello dear Megan! Thank you for your fabulous Christmas card, what a handsome family you have! I will never forget your amazing energy, as well as your husband’s! What a fun workshop it was! All the very best, Mimi x

Well that was a surprise seeing your photo at the beginning of the blog – i did yell out Mimi Thorrison is pregnant (my family obviously thought i was mad!!) i’d saved the blog, as there hadn’t been one for a while and loved catching up with your events from the last year! The play list is a brilliant idea (as i love the song clips on Oddur’s instagram video’s) i’m just a mad stalker – congratulations to all of you and keep those photo’s coming – i’m now in love with Bordeaux all thanks to you x

Bonjour Jane! Happy new year to you! Did you know Bordeaux made it N°2 on the list if the New York Times as best travel destination? It’s fantastic! I hope you’ll come back soon for a visit; All the very best, Mimi x

Dearest Mimi! Congratulations to you and your family. Wishing you thé happiest ever 2016 with the baby boy and the new book. So wonderful!
You mean so much : blog and the stories, recipies, mood and Oddur’s pictures. Thank you both. Enjoy your life and the family.

Hello Mimi,
First of all ,congratulations on your baby boy!
Thank you for all your posts, which are always interesting and fun to read, and thanks to your husband for his awesome photos.
Happy New Year 2016, to you and your family!

OOOOOMMMMGGGGG!!!!! I AM SO HAPPY FOR YOU! You had me in tears. Now I really really DO HAVE to make something special for you! A boy!?!?!?!?! I feel like this is just PERFECT! Congratulations!!! Frankly I’m stunned with joy for you and your beautiful family! I’m absolutely speechless! Many blessings and positive thoughts sent your way. Wow! Happy New Year. What a beautiful life you and Oddur have ^_^ !

Hi Mimi, thank you for such a beautiful post. What a life you lead! I’m so envious! I live in America and my life is so boring compared to yours! You have a wonderful way with words. Congratulations on your baby boy. I’m sure your girls adore him!

Thank you and Oddur for the beautiful words and photographs you share on your website. It provides for me an escape to daydream about a lifestyle in a beautiful far away place. I am grateful that with all of your endeavors…TV Show, Cook Book, pop-up restaurant, cooking classes, the dogs, and all of those beautiful children (how many are there?) that you and Oddur have the time at all the host such a magnificent website.

Hi Mimi and Oddur, thank you for such a beautiful post! We made dinner for some friends last night and thoroughly enjoyed your music picks on Spotify. Just received your beautiful book today and I am inspired to try something new. Thank you and congratulations on your lil baby!
Marnie

From the very first time I read your blog I was amazed at what you have created in your life: adorable children, an adoring husband, faithful puppies and more glorious moments with good food and wine then I could ever imagine. To think another child will be joining your happy abode is simply too good to be true. I am more excited than ever to meet you (and your wonderful family) next September when I come for the workshop. Thank you, Mimi, for sharing
your joy with us.

Bonjour Chere Mimi,
There’s a great Australian band called INXS.
They were big world wide so you may have heard of them.
One of their famous hits was Don’t Change.
The last line of the song is Don’t Change a thing for Me.
And that’s how I feel about your blog. Waiting for a post is no problem as when it does arrive…… its pure joy. Like this one……….and so will the next.
Anita xx
p.s. congratulations dear people xx

Dearest Anita, I absolutely love INXS! They remind me of my teenage years, and I often find myself listening to their albums. Favorite songs? Never tear us apart, New Sensation, Mystify… oh the good old days! I also love Don’t change! Thanks for the reference 🙂 Big hugs and all the very best for the new year! Mimi x

Merci Stacey! I also love Brunello’s tailor shot, and the one with the boys and Brunello (it’s on Instagram). Wishing you all the very best and hope you are getting real cozy despite the snow storm! Mimi x

So Happy for you Mimi and Oddur…blessed with another gift. Your Blog is just wonderful and with your busy life…. take your time with your family and your new adventures with cooking classes and the 2nd book. I have to say the music list was wonderful …thanks for listing..my favs now: Richard Hawley, Barbara and Robbie Williams. I will do my best to find some of the wines you mentioned we have a great new shop here that carries quite a few wines. Take Care..lots of love – Big Fan from Texas.

Hello Mimi,
Congratulations to the family for this new baby. I have read several times this lovely post. I loved this story of memories that ends with a new beginning in your life. Many hugs for you from Barcelona.

I love the infrequent posts Mimi. While it’s always a lovely read, when they’re few and far between they are like little presents life surprises one with sometimes. I saw the post while I was in a rush, but I know better, so I marked the email as unread and tucked it away for when I was laying on my bed with the cool breeze blowing and could read it as the magic it is. Thank you. For always inspiring, and introducing me to music I would never have otherwise heard of.

My goodness, you truly had me fooled, I assumed that photo was from last year! Congrats! I love every word , every photo that you share with the world. Living here on the farm coast of Massachusetts, you cannot even know how much you inspire my summers! Much love! xo Monica

Congratulation, Mimi! So nice to hear about your new baby! I love reading your blog, so nice to hear about the life i Medoc, and thank you for the inspiration to all the good meals! Happy new year to you and your wonderful family! 2016 will be wonderful year for you all!

Oh Mimi!!!! Great post from both of you. I loved reading every line and I am listening to the playlist right now. A baby on the way. That is wonderful news. Congratulation for the baby and the new book. I wish you all the best. Meilleurs vœux pour 2016!

I’m the 3rd of 8 children; 5 boys, 3 girls. Large families are rare these days, but wonderful. My mother had the patience of Job and my father was the captain in charge. Whenever a baby is born, I’m reminded of John Muir’s statement that “this is still the morning of creation.” Congratulations! Looking forward to the next cook book and the aromas that will fill our home there after… Happy New Year from CA. Ciao.

Congratulations Mimi!! Very excited for your second cookbook, but even more to see what name you two pick for a baby boy 🙂 So sweet! Why not be pregnant when you carry it so well! We want a big family too, but are just starting this April with our first addition 🙂

Congratulations Mimi. You have an amazing life. You are so blessed. And I am grateful to you that you take the time to share your stories/blessings with us. I hope to one day join your workshops or dine in your restaurant. Huge fan!

Congratulations, Mimi & Oddur to all your success in 2015 and even more to the new baby boy to come. We have two boys to arrive in late May but seeing how you cope (at least the public version) with a whole bunch of children and dogs makes me stay calm & happy. What a wonderful year it will be! N xx

wow Mimi, what a wonderfull surprise!
I wish you, Oddur, all the kids and of course the dogs, a wonderfull 2016,
especially in the end of june when 1 rue de loudenne gets a new little member… Enjoy!
Warmly,
Floor
ps. The Billy Holiday song is playing right now…!

Congratulations, Mimi and Oddur! Cannot imagine how you manage everything on your plates. You guys are amazing! Do you homeschool your kids or do they attend a school? Wondering what the rural schools in France are like. Would love to read it if you ever have the interest to write about that. Take care…

Hi Michelle! The kids go to a local school in the main village, and I am very happy with their tuition. At home we are bilingual,so I feel the kids get a very good balance. When they will be older, I am definitely considering high school (post 13-14 years old) tuition in Bordeaux. Bon week-end, Mimix

Congratulate so much with your baby boy. You must be so proud. Finally you got your little prince. Mimi, you write and visualize so beautiful that I dream about living in France. All you do is fantastic. I bought your book in the summer and I am so inspired by you. Can hardly wait for the second book to come out. Hurray !
Hope I get the chance to visit your area sometime in the future. A dream come true.
Best wishes for you and your little baby and all your lovely family
(by the way- Billie is my favorite of all time singer)
Love from Sweden (though I´m a Norwegian,,hi hi )

What a fabulous blog post! I love love love the format, the 10 song LP – in fact thanks for the songs too! And the news!!!!!!!! Congratulations on your new baby boy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! This is so wonderful – it’s made my day hearing this! And I greatly look forward to your new book – I use your first book all the time! And I love the sound of your blog plans – one day I hope to join a workshop or at the v least visit the pop up resto! With love and sending you health and happiness for this pregnancy, phillipa

Mimi, you never cease to amaze! Happy New Year and best wishes on sailing through to June with vigor! I’m going to pull out your cookbook today and make something from it in honor of your beautiful blog and family!

Congratulations!! And also, a question: Do you think I can triple the mouhalabieh recipe? And could I make it a day in advance, or will it be better if I prepare it a few hours before? (Birthday dinner Friday!)

Congratulations! Thank you for the time and energy you contribute in creating this blog which is about, yes, nourishment, and yet so much more. I wish you and your family continued contentment and joy with the little one on the inner horizon.

OMG OMG OMG!!!!! How exciting! I thought you were done and here you go looking just stunning with a baby bump. I think you’re the most glamorous pregnant lady that ever walked on this planet. I can’t wait to read all your future posts, see the baby pictures and enjoy the journey with you all. From the bottom of my heart – Congratulations!

what a lovely post, and such happy news, would it be too personal to ask you to share all the babes names, I just love childrens’ names….i’m new to your blog, a bit confused, 6 children or 8 children, and 2 parents and how many pups? just beautiful. your world is so beautiful. hugs from texas…

Congratulations Mimi and Oddur! A little baby boy, what wonderful news and such a lovely post! Hope you are doing well and taking time to rest a little. Looking forward to meet the new member of the Thorisson clan in December, all the Best!
Cassandre et Guylaine xx

Dearest Mimi,
I have been following your journey for the past four years all the way from Canada. Your recipes, and most of all your beautifully written stories, were my escape from late night studying (or my guilty pleasures rather). In those four years, I have graduated university, had my first job (and second, and third) made garlic soup on rainy days and dreamed of making the perfect madelines. I have found my soulmate, my best friend, and because both of them were the same person, I married him. As we moved in together to start our new journey, I introduced him to you and recieved your cookbook in return during the holidays (funny thing is I recieved your book as a gift twice more!).
You have been one of my favourite writers and inspiration to live well and indulge in the world around me. I am so happy for you and Oddur and your little ones. May you be blessed with success, health, happiness, and never lose the charm and grace I have seen through your writing all these years.
You make me homesick for the French countryside I have yet to see.
Love xx
Anum

Dear Mimi,
I have been following your blog: your recipies, your stories for the last two years. I started following you alone but my little daughter Anita joined in that inspirating and creative world that you have created.
As we feel as a little part of your family, we wanted to congratulate you, Oddur and your kids for that wonderful news.
Best wishes from Barcelona,
Love xx
Anita and Ana

I was watching your program on Canal plus and I fell in love with you , your way of life and style. I have so much appreciation to what you do and what you try to give to all of us. A sense of culture, love, and good attitude. We all need so much of it.

I have 2 quick question .. On the episode called Chasse .. When you are cutting the apples there is a beautiful jazz playing I am curious on the name of it that song ..

Secondly, I admire your figure so much, I was curious what excercises do you do and how do you portion control with all this delicious food . How do you practice moderation.?
Thank you
Camille